In an effort to help conserve and showcase the indigenous butterfly population of Cozumel, Patas & Alas Butterfly Sanctuary began operations in November 2006.

The mission of the Patas & Alas Butterfly Sanctuary is to increase awareness and foster an appreciation of butterflies and other invertebrates while educating the public about the need for conservation and preservation of threatened habitats on the island of Cozumel.

Scientific research done years ago documented over 70 different species of butterflies flying throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. However, up until now, no documentation existed as to which species were specific to Cozumel Island. Patas & Alas Butterfly Sanctuary is actively engaged in the accumulation and documention of Cozumel's butterfly population and lifecycles in order to aid conservation efforts.

The Patas & Alas Butterfly Sanctuary is a federally licensed program which is managed to comply with and operate under strict guidelines for wildlife flora and fauna preservation throughout Mexico. Located inside PalMar Beach Club, Patas Y Alas (Wings & Feet) is one of only two licensed sanctuaries in the State of Quintana Roo and the only butterfly sanctuary on the island.

A visit to the sanctuary's natural tropical foliage garden will provide guests with the chance to view many different species of butterflies in free flight, resting and feeding in a very natural habitat environment. Guests can take a leisurely stroll through the garden to smell the fragrant jungle flowers and watch butterflies of all colors, shapes and sizes flying all around and learn about butterfly habits and the miracle of metamorphosis.

NEW Update 2016: Due to ongoing pesticide spraying by neighbors since 2013, butterfly sanctuary captures have been suspended until issue is resolved. The good news is we are working diligently to reopen later by summer in 2016 with a smaller area, that will provide protection of the host plants, nectar plants and butterflies from these harmful sprayings. Stay tuned for updates, but in the mean time, you can still tour the area and see some of the "natural arrival" butterflies here at PalMar. And of course, PalMar SMALL Snorkel Beach Club is still open with fantastic snorkeling, fresh water pool and no crowds!!

**NOTE: Admission INCLUDES ~ 2 beers or soda/water for Adults & 1 soda/water for Children 3-12.These are NOT exchangeable for other products or services.

Snacks & Bar Beverages are available for purchase: Snacks such as fresh made pico de gallo, guacamole and chips, chicken or cheese quesadillas, chicken wings snack plate, chicken tacos and seafood ceviche's - prices range from US $4.00 to $13.00. Bar Beverages such as Margarita, Mango Margarita, Pina Colada, Cuba Libre and other tropical drinks - prices range from US $6.00 to $9.00. For the kiddos ~ cheese quesadillas are US $4.00.

***NOTE: NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR BEVERAGES ALLOWED***

Payment:

50% Deposit Prepay in AdvanceRemaining Cash Balance Due Upon Arrival ~ CASH ONLY

Dear Sherri -I just wanted to tell you how much my friend and I enjoyed spending the day at Palmar when we were on a cruise last week. Juan and Enrique are 2 of the most gracious, polite, and accommodating gentlemen I have ever met. This was my second visit to Palmar and the first for my friend. She was overwhelmed by the hospitality, and we both enjoyed Enrique's tour and explanation of the butterflies. Thank you again for a wonderful day at Palmar. Sincerely, JG Joan Gourley ~ N/A

We just returned from our 7th visit to Cozumel and we visited the butterfly sancturary with our six year old and we absolutely loved it! We know the island very well and this was our first vist to the beach club and now we have a new favorite to add to our island list. We don't do alot of touristy things when we are on the island, but this place is worth it. Beautiful, educational and relaxing! What more could you ask for! We will return to Cozumel in November and we will definitely head for the butterfly sanctuary and PalMar beach club! Michele Borzeka ~ Chicago, Illinois